Group of teenagers suspected in recent Oak Park break-ins

A small group of teens is suspected in a rash of burglaries and attempted burglaries where they have entered homes by kicking in doors.

Police are asking residents to call them if they see any suspicious persons in their neighborhoods as they seek to catch and identify suspects in the case.

Police said there have been about a half-dozen such incidents in the past few weeks in the 23000 and 24000 blocks of Geneva, Morton, Jerome and Kenosha streets.

"They just put the boot to the door," said Oak Park Public Safety Lt. Samantha Kretzschmar. "They go up to a house when they see it's dark inside and try to get in when they believe no one is home."

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At least two older black teens or young men ran off Wednesday after they tried to kick in the front door of a house on Kenosha about 8 p.m. A man was inside the house and saw them run away after he went to the door.

On Monday a neighbor called police after seeing suspicious activity in the 24000 block of Jerome about 8 a.m. while the homeowner was at work.

Two males were seen running from the house. Police arrived and chased the suspects but were unable to catch them. The suspects fled in a newer model white Town & Country Chrysler minivan and a third person may have been involved, police said.

In burglaries where the intruders have been successful they have stolen jewelry, small electronic items and other easy-to-carry valuables.

Kretzschmar said there may be more incidents that haven't been reported.

"We just want to get the message out to residents to call us and not hesitate if they see anybody suspicious," she said. "Just call so we can check it out. You don't even have to give us your name if you don't want to." Tipsters should call Oak Park Public Safety at 248-691-7520.